June 14, 2016 is the 239th anniversary of the resolution that created the first American flag. "As men and women who support America's critical missions at home and abroad," says CACI Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board Dr. J.P. (Jack) London, "America's flag is a daily reminder of the sacrifices made on its behalf. It's important that we take time to honor the flag, as we honor the men and women who serve under it."

Photo courtesy of the Smithsonian InstitutionThe garrison flag that flew over Fort McHenry during the bombardment of 1814.

"A New constellation"

On June 14, 1777, while resolving pressing issues in the maritime policy of the nascent United States, the Second Continental Congress resolved:

"That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation."

Congressional secretary Charles Thompson did not record why this design was chosen, save to note that 13 white stars represent the union as a "new constellation," perhaps symbolizing that the 13 colonies were taking their place among the sovereign nations of the world. But it is undeniable that the flag has come to symbolize many things in its 239 years.

During the War of 1812, the "Star Spangled Banner" waving over Fort McHenry displayed the determination and courage of the fledgling nation and her armed forces. In World War I, the American flag represented relief in the brutal stalemate between England and her allies and the German Reich. During World War II, it was a symbol of liberation and freedom in the face of Nazism's relentless conquest of Europe. Today, the red, white, and blue of Old Glory

Image courtesy of the Museum of World War IIFollowing the attack on Pearl Harbor, the Office of War Information combined a battle-scarred flag at half-mast with the stirring words of President Lincoln's Gettysburg Address to encourage action.

represents our nation's commitment to freedom, peace, and prosperity. It is a symbol of home for soldiers stationed abroad, a source of pride for America's veterans, and a sign of continuity and vigilance in times of national distress.

America's flag has been a rallying point for our nation for generations, and will continue to be for generations to come. CACI joins all Americans in honoring our flag and our country every June 14th.

As Dr. London notes "At CACI, we are proud to serve our country by supporting America's most critical missions with ethics and integrity in all we do. We also revere and honor our flag, the symbol of our nation, as embodying the very finest examples of the character and spirit of our democracy and our nation's enduring commitment to freedom, self-determination, and liberty."